Wireless earbuds have come a long way since they first hit the market. Gone are the bulky designs with unreliable connections and short battery life. Today’s earbuds are sleek, powerful, and packed with features. Whether you’re looking for something that cancels out the world, fits perfectly for a run, or delivers premium sound on a budget, there’s a pair for you. After testing some of the top models, we’ve curated this list of the best wireless earbuds of 2024 to help you find the perfect pair.
1. Best for Most People: Nothing Ear (a)
It’s rare to find a pair of wireless earbuds that perfectly balance quality, price, and style. The Nothing Ear (a) does just that. At under $100, these earbuds deliver superb sound quality with a design that’s as stylish as it is functional. The transparent charging case is a sleek touch, and the 5.5 hours of battery life with active noise-canceling means they’ll keep up during commutes or work sessions. Pairing with both Android and iOS devices is a breeze, and the app allows EQ customization for those who want to fine-tune their audio experience.
- Price: $98 at Amazon
- Pros: Great sound, lightweight, excellent touch controls
- Cons: Noise-canceling is good but not the best at this price point
2. Best Noise Canceling: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
If you’re looking for the absolute best noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra reigns supreme. Bose has mastered the art of blocking out the world, and these earbuds are no exception. Whether you’re in a noisy cafe or on a flight, the noise-canceling is unmatched, and the sound remains rich and detailed. Plus, with a comfortable fit and up to 6 hours of battery life, you can enjoy your music for longer without interruption.
- Price: $299 at Amazon
- Pros: Industry-leading noise canceling, vivid sound
- Cons: Expensive, bulky compared to others
3. Best for iPhones: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) with USB-C
Apple’s AirPods Pro have become a staple for iPhone users, and the 2nd generation with USB-C takes things up a notch. While it doesn’t drastically change the formula from the previous model, you get six hours of battery life, better sound with revamped audio architecture, and quick access to Apple’s “Find My” feature. These earbuds offer top-notch noise cancellation and excellent call quality, making them ideal for both work and play. If you’re embedded in the Apple ecosystem, it’s hard to go wrong with these.
- Price: $190 at Amazon
- Pros: Seamless integration with Apple devices, great sound and noise-canceling
- Cons: Works best within Apple’s ecosystem
4. Best for Workouts: Beats Fit Pro
For those who need earbuds that stay put during a workout, the Beats Fit Pro is a great option. These earbuds feature secure-fit wingtips that keep them locked in place during intense exercise, and they boast six hours of battery life with noise-canceling turned on. With support for spatial audio and a sound profile tuned for strong bass, they’re perfect for gym sessions. Plus, they work seamlessly with both Android and iOS devices, making them a versatile choice.
- Price: $160 at Best Buy
- Pros: Secure fit, bass-heavy sound, good battery life
- Cons: Noise canceling isn’t as powerful as more premium models
5. Best Under $25: JLab Go Air Pop
Finding quality earbuds for under $25 seems impossible, but the JLab Go Air Pop proves otherwise. These budget-friendly earbuds don’t skimp on the essentials. With 8 hours of battery life, responsive touch controls, and a built-in EQ, they’re surprisingly well-equipped for the price. While they don’t offer noise canceling, the sound quality is decent for everyday listening, making them a great option for those on a tight budget.
- Price: $24 at Amazon
- Pros: Affordable, solid battery life, decent sound for the price
- Cons: No noise canceling, basic design
6. Best Sound Quality: Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
If sound quality is your top priority, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 should be on your radar. Known for their audio excellence, Sennheiser delivers clear, detailed sound with strong bass and balanced mids and highs. These earbuds come with adaptive noise canceling, ensuring you hear nothing but your music. While the bulky design might not be for everyone, the sound alone makes these worth the investment.
- Price: $230 at Amazon
- Pros: Unmatched sound quality, great battery life
- Cons: Bulkier than competitors, pricey
7. Best for Samsung Owners: Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
For those in the Samsung ecosystem, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro are a perfect match. They offer hi-fi 24-bit audio, 5 hours of battery life with noise canceling, and an IPX7 rating, making them great for workouts. They’re comfortable for all-day wear, and the dual dynamic drivers ensure you get crisp, clean sound. Paired with a modern Samsung phone, you’ll also unlock spatial audio and other Samsung-exclusive features.
- Price: $140 at Amazon
- Pros: Excellent sound, great fit, good battery life
- Cons: Limited features for non-Samsung devices
Honorable Mentions
- Sony WF-1000XM5: These are top contenders for anyone who values excellent noise canceling and a sleek design, though they come with a slightly higher price tag at $298.
- Anker Soundcore Space A40: A budget-friendly option at $59, offering noise canceling, decent sound, and a great fit for the price.
Which Earbuds Should You Choose?
Your ideal earbuds depend on what you prioritize. If you’re looking for the best overall value, the Nothing Ear (a) is a fantastic pick under $100. For those deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) are a seamless fit. Audiophiles who crave premium sound should look no further than Sennheiser’s Momentum True Wireless 4. And for those on a budget, the JLab Go Air Pop proves you don’t need to spend much to get a quality pair.
Whatever your budget or preference, there’s a pair of earbuds in 2024 that will suit your needs perfectly. Happy listening!
